Our Gear Picks for a Spring Hut Trip
The resorts are closing in Colorado, but that doesn’t mean ski season is over. The fierce storms that have been hammering the Rockies and dropping feet of snow are just giving us more reason to seek out fresh lines (while being extra cautious of avy danger)!
These are some pictures from a recent trip we took to the 10th Mountain Division Vance’s Hut during a weekend with 15 new inches of fluffy, fresh snow.
Here’s the gear we loved on our trip:
The lenses on the Rudy Project Spinhawk are some of the best we’ve worn. The lightweight Spinhawk has a bunch of fun, funky color options and an awesome fit, which kept us from loosing them in the snow.
“Rudy Project Spinhawk are lifestyle glasses with a great sporty look which can also be worn when relaxing away from the field of play. The exceptional technical features, in fact, give those wearing these glasses a “Technically Cool” and winning appeal. Spinhawk glasses are worn by winners and all those who dare to be innovative in their appearance as well. The Spinhawk design is the result of a clever combination of elements drawn from Rudy Project’s stylistic heritage, elements which have ensured the success of the Italian company, and new distinctive details that create a unique and timeless style.” – Rudy Project
These boots offer a ton of ways to customize the fit, are super-lightweight and offer the best uphill comfort of any AT boot we’ve used.
“The lightest 4-buckle Alpine Touring boot on the market, the Sparkle achieves the greatest range of cuff rotation in their class. The patented design allows a full 60 degrees of ankle movement and the Vertebra construction adds support for downhill performance. The exclusive, low-profile Pegasus buckle system allows macro and micro adjustability for a precise fit. The EZ Flex tongue is designed to work seamlessly with the women’s specific EZ Thermo Liner so that inner and outer boots mesh cleanly while walking or skinning.” – Sportiva
Shop the Sparkle on Outdoor Prolink
Bergans of Norway Hafslo + MHM Powderkeg
We love the waterproof/breatheable material on the Hafslo, which isn’t too hot skinning up, but offers plenty of protection when the storm starts whipping. Review on Dirtbag Dreams here
“Technical, 3-layer ski pants specially developed for alpine and telemark. The pants are made from a soft and comfortable fabric, while the Dermizax® membrane makes the pants waterproof, windproof and breathable. Hafslo connect to several of our ski jackets to create a complete suit.” – Bergans
Shop the Hafslo Pant on Outdoor Prolink
MHM Powderkeg: “This backcountry snow pack doesn’t discriminate on how you choose to get down the mountain. Our VersaHaul™ strap system can carry a snowboard or skis any way. That’s right, ANY WAY!.. Vertical, diagonal both ways, a-frame and horizontal. The PowderKeg 32™ uses our M-Flex™ Access aluminum wire perimeter frame to effectively support the weight of your snow gear and still allow backpanel access to the inside of the pack. This frame combined with our VariCant™ dual-pivoting hipbelt will flex and pivot to accommodate body motion so you’ll never feel restricted by your pack while slashing pow or dropping cliffs.” – MHM
The comfortable, versatile and breathable Baker Bib is a favorite at Outdoor Prolink. We especially love the reinforced cuffs and knees. It’s out of stock for the season, but snag a pair this fall.
“Named for the ski patrollers at Mount Baker who requested a bib ski pant for wet, Northwest days, the Baker Bib is our go-to stormy weather gear. They’ve got a freeride fit, side vents, and tons of storage space.” – Flylow
Darn Tough Captain Stripe Ultra Light Ski Socks
This is an image from an fall hut trip to the Jakal Hut, but the Captain Stripe Socks were equally festive during our trip to Vance’s Hut. They are extremely comfortable, and the merino wool offers order-resistance and breathability, so you can enjoy the patriotic flair all year-long.
“All-mountain. All American. This burly, all-mountain performance sock has the perfect amount of cushioning along the bottom of the foot for extra support and comfort. Over-the-Calf height is ideal for skiing and riding in deep conditions while fine gauge Merino Wool provides legendary warmth without the bulk. And since Merino Wool is naturally antimicrobial this sock repels bacteria and odor. If only everything in life was this simple. Still made in Vermont. Guaranteed for life.” – Darn Tough
Shop the Captain Stripe on Outdoor Prolink
Although this pack is designed for backpacking, it was comfortable while skinning, manageable while skiing, and offered plenty of room for 30-rack duty.
“The Osprey Atmos AG™ 50 features Osprey’s Anti-Gravity™ suspension system for quick drying ventilation and all-day comfort. This pack is well suited for weekend excursions or quick overnight forays when you are toting less than 40 pounds.” – Osprey
Shop the Atmos AG on Outdoor Prolink
Native Eyewear Sanitas Sunglasses
These polarized glasses beautifully fought off damage from sun and snow, stayed put, and the bold color and retro style were perfect for a fun spring ski trip.
“Named for the popular hiking trail in Boulder, this piece features a round lens, retro keyhole nose detail, and lightweight durability. Tough enough to get you to the top of the mountain, and stylish enough to head straight to the juice bar when you’re done.” – Native Eyewear
Shop gear on Outdoor Prolink. Not a member? Apply today!